If your toes become painful when they become cold, it may be Raynaud's disease. Read how our doctors at Prairie Path Foot and Ankle can help.

When it is cold outside, it is important to dress warmly. But sometimes even with a good thick pair of socks and protective shoes, your toes still may become frigid. If your toes become painful and may turn a darkish purple color, you may have a condition called Raynaud's disease or Raynaud's syndrome. Raynaud's is a disorder that affects the blood flow to the digits, especially the tips of the toes. It is caused by vasoconstriction, or contracting of the blood vessels. This in turn may cause the tips of your toes to turn blue, and in turn, may cause pain in the toes. If you think you may have Raynaud's, it is important to see one of the doctors to rule out other causes of pain such as frostbite, trauma, neuropathy, or complications due to diabetes if you are diabetic. To help immediately, go inside to a warmer place, wiggle your toes and massage them. All of these will help increase the blood flow to the toes. If all else fails, you can even run your feet under warm (not hot) water. Most importantly, make an appointment with one of our doctors to have your feet examined. Our doctors will work with your primary care doctor, who will possibly runsome blood tests and rule out other concurrent disorders. So if you are concerned, make an appointment today with one of our doctors at Prairie Path Foot and Ankle Clinic.